The NHL has already cut the breakaway challenge from the All-Star Skills Competition, but a new entertaining replacement might’ve been found.
Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet.ca reports the All-Star game will feature a new competition titled “The Four Line Challenge.” The new event will see players try to hit targets from particular spots on the ice. Think the accuracy challenge, but on crack.
“With the demise of the breakaway challenge, which was as much the players’ decision as the league’s, the skills competition adds what’s called “The Four Line Challenge” as a replacement. Players will try to hit targets in the net from the closest blueline, centre ice, the far blueline and then the opposite goal line. Goalies will be offered the chance to try from the farthest distance, with more points available if they can do it.”
Adding goaltenders to the mix is an excellent way to ensure an entertaining challenge. Seeing a goaltender try to hit a target from a considerable distance will be hilarious. Perhaps, it’s why Mike Smith was included in the game to begin with?
The breakaway challenge was fun, but the excitement quickly became stale. With the Four Line Challenge, successful or not, the NHL is trying something different. Even if it fails, they should be commended for trying something new.
As always, check out Friedman’s 30 Thoughts column for excellent insights, quotes, and reports in the NHL world.
